Gary,
Agreed on the pre 1962 as plausible for Johnson involvement. ...and, in all good defense of GTR, it is quite easy to be off a small bit of time when recalling all of this stuff.
I have spoken with "Crutch" as well as "Rigid54" and I find the possibility of this Michigan maker possible. I have promised (and I'm not a snitch) to not reveal anyone (who does not want to be named) in this thread...BUT...(I know: That word again) this guy Howard did exist and the "stories" hold pretty good water! And the person telling the story is a good friend, good customer and collector.
....just sayin', Capt. Chris